1992 Toyota Cressida Rough Idle Stalls

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MAXCHEN
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I recently made the mistake of leaving my car sitting outside while on vacation for 2 weeks. I live in Dallas and I think the weather while I was gone got as cold as between 35F and 47F at night - not sure if the cold-ish weather would have anything to do with my problem. When I came back and tried to start the car, it wouldn't start. The engine was having a really rough time turning over, but I could hear the starter motor working (along with my radio) so I assume that the battery/charging system and starter motor are all fine.

Eventually, I was able to get the car to run but very roughly. This required me to press down on the accelerator quite a bit. It sounded like it was turning over more smoothly when I got the rpms up to over 3000 or so. When I tried to let it idle, the engine would simply stall. I've been trying to start this vehicle periodically over the last three days, and it seems to be getting a little better as time passes. Now, it may idle (and not stall) at just under 1000 RPMs but still does so roughly. I haven't tried to drive anywhere for fear of the car stalling in the middle of the road.

Do you have any ideas of what could be causing these problems after the car has been sitting idle for 2 weeks. Prior to this, it was running fine for its age. Thanks.
Jan 3, 2007 at 9:50 PM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
If the ignition got damp from setting this may be the source. How old are the plug wires and plugs. If their older, replace them.
May or may not be the cure, but good maintenance regardless.
Jan 3, 2007 at 10:27 PM

Suggested Repair

Inspect the ignition for moisture from sitting and replace older spark plugs and plug wires, which may cure the rough idle and stalling.

Conversation Summary

A 1992 Toyota Cressida that had been running fine sat outside for two weeks, then cranked hard, ran roughly, and stalled at idle while running better above about 3000 rpm. It improved slightly over several days but still idled roughly. The expert suggested damp ignition from sitting and recommended replacing older plugs and plug wires as possible repair and good maintenance.

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